Education Unlimited 2021 - Toowoomba by News Corp Custom Publishing

THECHRONICLE.COM.AU FRIDAY JUNE 25 2021

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Let us help you ﬁnd a quality, affordable, ﬂexible Childcare Centre that suits your family's needs

TWO GREAT TOOWOOMBA LOCATIONS

Large play spaces Approved Kindergarten

Toowoomba Central 5 Jennings Street, Toowoomba 07 4637 8001

Gladstone Street 44 Gladstone Street, Toowoomba 07 4632 5284

Quality Education and Care

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Kath Dickson the perfect place for your child

KATH Dickson Family Centre has been a feature of the early childhood care landscape in Toowoomba for more than 45 years, providing support to children and their families with affordable, flexible, quality child care in a friendly nurturing environment. Our not-for-profit community-based culture is naturally embedded into our staff, as we work hard to support each and every child on their individual developmental journey. The range of early childhood services we offer, including long day care, family day care, kindergarten, and playgroups, allows us to offer the model of care that suits an individual child best. Some children who struggle in large groups, thrive in family day care, while others enjoy the friends and facilities offered in our centres. We believe that childcare should not just be a childminding service, but should

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also be about growth and development in a friendly playbased setting. Our large play spaces provide the perfect opportunity to explore, make new friends, or try exciting new games. Our centres also offer a fully accredited kindergarten program, specifically designed to prepare children for starting preschool next year. All of our work is relationship-based, so it is inevitable that our centre directors become a listening ear for our children and families going through challenging times, as we support them in ways that include changing booked days, accessing additional childcare funding if applicable, and working alongside family support agencies to ensure consistent care and optimal outcomes. With flexible sessions from as little as six hours through to all-day from 6am to 6pm, we work with families to maximise their eligible Child Care Subsidies accessing oc-

casional or permanent bookings. Our services can provide short term bookings to give the much-needed flexibility for casual workers and families juggling shiftwork, allowing them peace of mind knowing their child is safe and cared for when needed. Permanent bookings are ideal for working families needing the ongoing certainty of our educators being always available when you head off to work every week. The flexibility continues with our Toowoomba Central Centre providing specially cooked meals, while our Gladstone St Centre allows you to send your child with meals you have lovingly prepared at home. It was a community need that brought our organisation into existence in 1975 when we launched Queensland’s first family day care scheme, and we have continued to connect a network of homebased early childhood educa-

tors with children and families in their community. Our growing network of family day care educators operate in a broad geographical area, including Toowoomba, Darling Downs, Western Downs, Lockyer Valley, Granite Belt, and the Sunshine Coast. Whether you are looking for a change of career, have a

desire to work from home, or desire your child to be cared for in a small group setting, family day care is right for you. A strong advocate for the sector, we are also a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) providing face-to-face training in nationally accredited qualifications to more than 1100 students starting their career in early child-

hood across urban and rural Queensland, complemented by regular professional development sessions and networking opportunities. We also run regular playgroups and a community toy library. We invite families to visit our centres, look around, and discuss why Kath Dickson Family Centre is right for your child.

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FRIDAY JUNE 25 2021 THECHRONICLE.COM.AU

Become part of the family at Chinchilla Christian College CHOOSING a school is one of the most important decisions parents can make for their children. A good question to ask yourself when making this decision is ‘what is my vision for my child?’ Having a clear idea of the person you want your child to be when they graduate makes the choice of school that much easier. Chinchilla Christian College operates with this vision in mind – concerned as much about who each child is and developing their character as much as their academic achievements – and aims to develop confident and compassionate men and women of character who shine in their work and service, to the glory of God. The independent, coeducational Christian school includes a playgroup and kindergarten as well as primary and secondary schools, all on the one campus, with

committed and caring staff and fantastic facilities and resources. Ultimately, the school is big enough to provide great opportunities for students, but also small enough to keep that personal touch. “We are passionate about being a learning community where every student can shine – spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially,” principal Nathan McDonald explained. “We seek to educate the whole person; that is, we focus on the head, the hands and the heart,” he said. “In this way, we encourage students to have strong minds, develop practical skills and cultivate wholesome, Christian values.” The school believes God has a special plan and purpose for each child, and that all children can achieve success – catering for a wide variety of student learning needs

“We are passionate about helping each student be all they can be.” NATHAN MCDONALD through the Australian Curriculum taught from a Christian worldview. “Our educational program is enriched with a wide range of co-curricular activities that facilitate the further development of individual student strengths and abilities,” Mr McDonald said. “We are passionate about helping each student be all they can be.” Unique to Chinchilla Christian College is the belief that everyone at the school is part of the family. Regardless of what stage in their schooling a new student is in when they join the college, they become a lifelong mem-

ber of the ‘CCC family’. “It does not matter when a student departs from the College, we will always consider them to be part our school’s family,” Mr McDonald said. As students graduate and move on to the next season of their lives, staff love being updated about how their study or work is progressing, and there is always support available from the College whenever the past students need it. “As human beings, our greatest need is to be loved,” Mr McDonald said when explaining the College’s philosophy. “During each student’s time at CCC, our hope and prayer is

that they will come to know more about God’s unconditional love for them and experience the love of their school family.”

Discover more about Chinchilla Christian College by calling the office on 4668 9777 from 8am to 4pm, or visit www.chinchillacc.qld.edu.au

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A powerful partnership AFTER nearly 12 years as the Head of Learning and Teaching, helping thousands of students through their final years of school and into tertiary studies, Stewart Peacock will step down from the role at the end of this year. Stepping into his office is Pam Stains, who currently heads the Junior Learning Centre, undertaking a similar role to Stewart for the Junior School. But, for the next six months, Pam will be working closely with Stewart to prepare for a seamless changeover. “The next six months act as a handover partnership, so that Stewart can get me up to speed so I can hit the ground running, and also so that the transition is smooth for staff, students and parents,” Pam says. Fairholme’s unique Teaching and Learning department has seen the college lead the way in academic success in the Toowoomba region consistently for the past six years. “I think the big difference here at Fairholme is that there are no barriers,” Stewart says. “The leadership team do not sit in an ivory tower, unap-

proachable. They are, in fact, in the classroom daily. I still teach; the principal, Dr Linda Evans, teaches. Because of that we all work very closely – teachers and students – and we have an understanding. “This office is like a railway station, because students are in and out the door all the time, and they are comfortable discussing their academic progress from Year 10 right through to Year 12,’ he says. There’s a nod of agreement between him and Pam, as they discuss the implications of a changeover in the role. Pam says the partnership put in place between her and Stewart for the remainder of the year will allow her to develop a better connection with the Senior school. “Part of us being a leading school comes from the culture, and that comes from the teachers and the students and so being able to spend time in this area is very important,” she says. When asked what will change, Pam is quick to acknowledge the ongoing fluctuations in teaching and learning at Fairholme. “As a school we are pro-

gressive in our thinking, and that means that we are always evolving,” she explains. “Pedagogy is changing, and so we must keep up with that. But in terms of the feel that parents and students have when they come into the Teaching and Learning Department – that will remain the same. “That is Fairholme, and it is why we do so well.” Stewart admits that after more than a decade helping students reach their potential, much of the information he’s built around the job is in his head. ‘That’s because the dynamics of this job don’t allow you to just follow a certain path or protocol, flexibility is required. The nature of the work changes every day,” he says. “Pam has the opportunity to put her own stamp on this role, and I think that’s really important in the way that education and teaching and learning evolves. It’s a journey. There is no formula and in order for us to continue to be leaders, we’ve got to have the ability change ourselves and support change for others.” Pam has completed a Mas-

Pam Stains and Stewart Peacock, Teaching and Learning at Fairholme College. ter of Education Guidance and Counselling, has been a longterm marker for the Faculty of Education at USQ, and is also currently studying her Doctor of Education. “If we want our girls to be

lifelong learners, then it is important that we also practice that and model that for others,” she says. “By continuing my studies, I hope that I can encourage the girls I see to understand that

learning is a lifelong journey.” Pam steps into the role full time in January 2022. Stewart will continue teaching psychology and assisting with pathways at Fairholme College in a part-time capacity.

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Tips for packing school lunches Struggling to get your kids to eat their lunch? Josie Adams – a time-poor mum of three has these tips for making lunchtime slightly less than a battle of wills. PLAN YOUR LUNCHES

Easier said than done I know. Previously, I was a Monday morning ‘oh what’s in the cupboard – vegemite – yep that’ll do’ kind of gal. However, after getting full lunch boxes back from school I realised a different tactic was needed. Planning out what the kids like eating with them and doing one grocery shop a week for lunches saves heaps of stress and time. If they are planned, the kids

can also get involved making it. And for some bizarre reason, if they have a say in what they have for lunch, they’re more likely to eat it (go figure).

The other wonderful thing about baking is that most of your creations can be frozen for up to 3 months, which takes me to my next tip…

BECOME FRIENDS WITH YOUR FREEZER

It’s not just baking that you can freeze in advance. Premade sandwiches, rolls or croissants filled with ham or

deli meats also freeze well. Just add some lettuce or tomato after the defrost and you’re good to go. You can also pre-cut fruit and vegetables and keep them

in the fridge for up to a week. Apples sliced and soaked in salted water for five minutes will keep them fresh for up to three days.

GET YOUR BAKE ON

I’m no baker, but if I set aside a couple of hours on a Sunday afternoon to batch bake, I’m on the front foot for the entire week and this feels good. It’s also super easy to hide vegetables in various baked goods – think carrot and oatmeal cookies or zucchini muffins.

Keep the kids happy with these lunch box - friendly, healthy veggie fritters from taste.com.au

STEP 1

Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan forced. Place one teaspoon oil in each hole of a 12-hole (1/3-cup-capacity) muffin pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until oil is hot. STEP 2

1/3 cup light flavoured extra virgin olive oil 1 small zucchini, grated 1 small carrot, grated 1/2 cup chopped broccoli 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander leaves, plus extra to serve 1/2 cup plain flour 1/4 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp sweet paprika 1 egg 1/4 cup milk 6 cherry tomatoes, halved 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce

Meanwhile, place zucchini, carrot, broccoli, chives, coriander, flour, baking powder and paprika in a bowl. Season. Stir until well combined. Whisk egg, milk and remaining oil together in a jug. Add to vegetable mixture. Stir to combine. STEP 3

Carefully remove pan from oven. Spoon mixture among pan holes. Top with tomato halves, cut-side up. Return to oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and crisp. STEP 4

Brush fritters with sweet chilli sauce. Stand in pan for five minutes. Using a butter knife, carefully lift fritters from pan. Serve sprinkled with extra coriander.

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Quality education at Darling Downs Christian School ESTABLISHED in 1942, Darling Downs Christian School is a coeducational school providing quality Christian education from kindergarten to year 12. An intimate-size school fostering a whole person approach to learning, the school is founded on Biblical principles and values. Welcoming students from many different denominational and cultural backgrounds, the school is set on a beautiful semirural campus, in the growing Toowoomba suburb of Glenvale. The curriculum not only focuses on the intellectual but also the spiritual, physical, social and emotional dimensions of our students. The whole-person approach is expressed in special character initiatives such as a

spiritual development curriculum, service opportunities and learning outside the classroom. Following the successful opening our new senior building last year, this year we rebranded and relaunched our kindergarten centre, which is now called Tiny Seeds Kindergarten. The new kindergarten facilities offer families of Glenvale and the greater Toowoomba area the opportunity to access a unique Queensland Government approved play-based program. Lead educator Ms Robyn Crisp shared her vision for Tiny Seeds. “My vision is to embed a culture that values and respects the individual and uniqueness of each child, and fosters a community of inclu-

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siveness of learning and opportunity,” she said. “My focus is to nurture the whole child, by supporting the family unit and working in partnership, and empowering parents to advocate for their child. “I am committed to ensuring the children access and engage in nurturing, challenging and sustainable learning environments, which align with the Christian values of the wider school community.” Principal Mr Adrian Fitzpatrick said “the Glenvale area is a growing community, and it is important for us to grow with it.” Our school can offer families a place where children can learn in a supportive, safe environment with a wide range of wonderful opportunities.

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Illuminating possibilities MATER Dei Primary School in Toowoomba develops lifelong learners and well-rounded, community minded people through blending a traditional Catholic context with contemporary teaching. The coeducational, Prep to Year 6 school was established in East Toowoomba by the Good Samaritan sisters in 1917, and has gone from strength to strength since. “Our learning community welcomes families from all faith traditions and provides

an inclusive and dynamic environment that illuminates possibilities for all learners,” said Chris Bartlett, principal. There is a plethora of opportunities for all students at the school. “Students participate in specialist music, drama, visual arts, Japanese, and physical education lessons,” Chris said. “They also have access to a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including instrumental music, concert band, chess and tech time. School

time clubs ensure students have opportunity to participate in diverse activities such as environmental warriors, art club, choir and makerspace,” he said. Excellence is recognised through representative sport, Drama Festival, whole school musical, Art Show, Eisteddfods and ICAS academic assessments, as well as annual school-based excellence in learning awards which recognise growth, academic achievement, learning disposi-

tions and Year 6 leadership. Chris explained the focus on Year 6 leadership: “Every Year 6 student is a school leader,” he said. “This model ensures authentic and varied leadership opportunities for all. “Students lead assemblies, mentor a Prep buddy, lead lunch time activity clubs, assist in the library, provide annual feedback to the principal, and represent the school at special community events.” This means that Mater Dei

develops young people who have grounded morals and understand how to be excellent learners. “Students who leave our school have the knowledge and skills to take any path they want in life,” Chris added. “Mater Dei provides a Catholic context integrated with contemporary teaching and learning. “Learners grow their own spirituality and their knowledge and skills from the Australian Curriculum.”

The school is known through the wider Toowoomba community as being a strong family community with high academic standards, and students who are well grounded to be excellent contributors to the greater community. Why not experience Mater Dei for yourself? Friday mornings are specifically set aside for school tours with the principal, and you can book your place by calling the school on 4637 6100 or visiting the website mdpstwb.catholic.edu.au

Co-educational Catholic Education since 1917 Caters for Prep – Yr 6 • Spacious grounds Modern, fully air conditioned rooms Strong links with local kindergartens and high schools Illuminating the Possibilities for every learner to be their best: • School wide consistency in contemporary teaching excellence • High academic achievement for students • Explicit development of successful learner dispositions • Aﬀordable with high delivery of outcomes

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GET YOUR BODY INTO BOWLING!

Quality counts when it comes to screen time Hint: Epic Fail videos have very few benefits, writes Josie Adams MY SEVEN-year-old son loves his iPad and sometimes this really bothers me. However, while there are many negative impacts that can be connected to technology use, there are certainly positive impacts as well. Quality screen time for school-age children can have its benefits including improving multi-tasking ability as well as building confidence in a constantly technologically advancing world. Unfortunately, watching epic fail videos on YouTube – while entertaining – doesn’t re-

ally count as ‘quality’ screen time. Good quality apps, games and videos for children show positive behaviours and encourage new skill sets (for example, football drills) creativity, problem-solving and good social skills. Parents can watch for quality apps that promote vocabulary, math, literacy, and help make sure kids learn about computer science and IT as part of technology use to give them opportunities for a bright tech future. Stick with games, apps and

videos that promote positive family relationships and have good stories that feature characters who treat each other with kindness and respect. It may also be a good idea to avoid programs that are just about selling promotional toys, apps and gear. Not only do they offer nothing of real value, but they can also end in an unexpected credit card bill (yes, this has happened in our household). Cybersecurity software and systems can help ensure that kids stay safe while using technology.

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Emerging artists Toowoomba State High School welcomes our region’s first Performing Arts Academy WITH more than 100 years of tradition and excellence, this local school is creating stars for the future; be it in the classroom, sporting field or stage. Toowoomba State High School provides opportunities for young emerging artists that no other school can. They value the individual talents, capability and diversity of all their students. Comprehensive subject offerings, smaller class sizes, competitive extra-curricular programs and state of the art

facilities allow every student the opportunity to flourish. The school is also proud of their brand-new $12 million Performing Arts Centre opening only this year. The brand-new centre complements the launch of our region’s first ‘Performing Arts Academy’, beginning in 2022. The Performing Arts Academy caters for students who have a passion for dance, drama and theatre. As part of the academy, students will perform frequently

for the Toowoomba community and specialise in these performing arts disciplines. Students will audition to be part of the academy, which is a year-long elective course in years 7, 8, 9 and 10. There are also scholarships available for new students across all art disciplines on offer, including music, film and television, visual art, drama and dance. For more information or to apply, contact arts@toowoombashs.eq.edu.au

TOOWOOMBA STATE HIGH SCHOOL

WHY CHOOSE US? 31% ATAR score of 90 or above (state average 24.3%) 92% QCE Attainment (state average 88%)

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Grounding exercises: how they help children AFTER a traumatic, frightening or upsetting experience, a grounding exercise can help children calm down. According to the Raising Children Network, grounding exercises encourage children to focus on the things around them, rather than on the thoughts and feelings that are distressing them. Grounding exercises can help adults too, so you could do a grounding exercise together with your child. It’s important for children to be able to calm down after traumatic or distressing experiences; calming down helps them cope in the moment and recover over time. With practice and your help, children and teenagers can learn to calm down by themselves. You can do a grounding exercise anywhere and anytime. You just need a quiet, comfortable place and a few minutes when you won’t be inter-

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rupted. Start by making sure your child is sitting comfortably with their legs and arms uncrossed. Then use a calm, quiet voice to guide your child through the exercise. Take it slowly and allow time for each step. Here’s how to talk your child through the steps in this exercise: 1. ‘Get comfortable. Uncross your arms and legs.’ 2. ‘Now breathe in and out slowly three times.’ You can guide your child through this. 3. ‘Now look around you. Name five objects that you can see.’ 4. ‘Close your eyes. Breathe in and out slowly three times.’ 5. ‘Keep your eyes closed and listen carefully. Name five sounds that you can hear.’ 6. ‘Keep your eyes closed. Breathe in and out slowly three times.’ 7. ‘Keep your eyes closed and think about how your

body feels. Name five things you can feel.’ 8. ‘Keep your eyes closed. Breathe in and out slowly three times.’ If your child names distressing objects or sounds, gently interrupt and suggest they choose something else. For example, you could say, ‘Yes, I know you can hear that, but what else can you hear? Can you hear the bird chirping?’ For younger children or children with additional needs, you could change the things you ask your child to focus on and name. For example, you could ask them to name the colours or shapes of objects around them, or things they can smell, or touch. Older children might like to do the activity independently. You could show your child how to do the exercise, or record yourself talking them through it, and then suggest they use it when they need to calm themselves.

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Celebrate God in all things